Maynard set to leave Somerset

NewsESPNcricinfo understands that Maynard, the former England and Glamorgan batsman, will leave the club immediately after the final game of the season

Matthew Maynard looks on as wickets tumble at Taunton  •  Getty Images

Division One survival will not be enough to save Matthew Maynard’s position as director of cricket at Somerset.

ESPNcricinfo understands that Maynard, the former England and Glamorgan batsman, will leave the club immediately after the final game of the season. He has spent three years at the club and had another two years remaining on his contract.

While Somerset have endured a tough season in 2017, they went close to winning the County Championship for the first time in their history in 2016 and reached the knock-out stages of both limited-overs competitions this year.

They are also set to record a victory on the final day of the season against Middlesex that will guarantee them Division One Championship cricket in 2018.

The decision is understood to be “completely amicable” and follows a review of the cricket operation at the club by new chief executive, Lee Cooper, who succeeded Guy Lavender just over a month ago. Among his conclusions was that asking one man to operate as director of cricket with a responsibility for all teams, admin and coaching was unsustainable. The new structure will see a head coach working under a director of cricket.

The failure to secure the future of Adam Hose, who left for Warwickshire, or secure an overseas player for the final portion of the season, are both understood to have frustrated the club’s management.

It is understood that Andy Hurry is likely to be appointed as director of cricket with Jason Kerr likely to take the role of head coach. Hurry is a previous head coach at the club and is currently head of the England Development Programme, while Kerr is the current bowling coach. Both are thought to be steeped in Somerset cricket and understand the distinctive demands and dynamics of the club.

“Following this comprehensive review of our cricket structure, it has become very clear that the existing structure is not as effective as it needs to be,” Cooper said, confirming the news. “The role of director of cricket is very different to that of head coach and we have recognised this and it’s for this reason we’re making the change.

“During Matt’s time with the club we have seen the emergence of several high quality young players and his commitment to the cause has been absolute. I have no doubt that we will see him back in the game again soon and everyone associated with the club wishes Matt and his family the very best for the future.”

“It will be with a heavy heart when I leave this unique cricket club after the End of Season Dinner,” Maynard said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my three years in Taunton and would like to thank all the players, support staff, committee and members for their support during my tenure.

“We came so close to securing the Holy Grail last season, but it was not to be. With the enormously talented young players at the club, along with the quality senior players, I’m sure success and silverware will come in the not too distant future.”

George Dobell is a senior correspondent at ESPNcricinfo